Digital Product
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Price Rumors and What to Expect
2024-12-08
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a highly anticipated device that has sparked much speculation about its price. With Samsung's history of using the best components and offering exciting extras like Galaxy AI and a built-in S Pen, it's no surprise that the price won't be low. But just how high will it go?

Unraveling the Mystery of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra's Price

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The Price Landscape

Samsung's S Ultra flagships have always been known for their premium features and high prices. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is no exception. While we won't have a definite answer until the phone goes on sale early next year, we can make some educated guesses based on past trends and current market conditions.

Looking at the best-case scenario, buyers of the S25 Ultra may hope that prices remain static for another year. The cheapest configuration could match the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which starts at $1,299.99 for the 256GB version and goes up to $1,659.99 for the 1TB model. However, this feels like wishful thinking as components are becoming more expensive due to inflation.

The Impact of Inflation on the S25 Ultra's Price

Inflation is a major factor that could drive up the price of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. As the cost of goods and services continues to rise, smartphone manufacturers like Samsung are not immune. The most prominent of these pricey internals is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which is expected to power all three versions of the Galaxy S25. Back in June, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo estimated that the new chip would be 25 to 30% higher than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 that powers the best Android phones of the past year.

In addition to the chip, other components such as memory and storage are also likely to see price increases. This could add an extra $110 or more to the cost of the phone, according to Weibo leaker Setsuna Digital. If this is correct, and the most conservative price increase is passed on to the consumer, the S25 Ultra could start at a massive $1,409.

Samsung's Buying Power and the Price Outlook

While there are reasons to be skeptical about the high price predictions, Samsung's scale gives it immense buying power. The company could probably negotiate a volume discount with its suppliers, which could help offset some of the cost increases. However, a starting price of $1,409 would make the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra $210 more than the iPhone 16 Pro Max and $310 more than the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. This could be a commercially risky move for Samsung.

At the end of the day, the truth is probably somewhere between these two figures. Samsung is not a charity and is not immune to the increased cost of doing business. A price rise seems very likely, but a ~$100 jump for the second year running may be too much. A starting price of $1,349 feels like the most likely scenario, but we won't know for sure until Samsung reveals the Galaxy S25 family.

Queer-owned brand discovery Famm launches LGBTQ+ social app
2024-12-08
Famm, a remarkable discovery platform dedicated to queer-owned brands, was ingeniously crafted by the BIPOC queer married couple Cat Perez and Marianna Di Regolo. Its primary purpose is to assist users in locating LGBTQ-owned businesses. Now, it is set to introduce a brand new social networking app tailored specifically for LGBTQ+ professionals and business owners, enabling them to connect and collaborate seamlessly.

Empowering LGBTQ+ Professionals with a Dedicated Network

Discovering a Safe Space

Famm Connect, which is now accessible on both iOS and Android devices, boasts common features such as a feed for sharing and discovering posts, direct messaging capabilities, and a dedicated section for managing and cultivating connections. What truly distinguishes it is its unwavering commitment to creating a secure and inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ professionals can engage with authenticity. In professional settings, LGBTQ+ individuals often encounter discrimination, microaggressions, or biases. It can be challenging to find support on mainstream networks that fail to address their specific challenges. Moreover, they may hesitate to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity on platforms like LinkedIn due to concerns about potential career setbacks.

Famm Connect emerges as a superior alternative to mainstream platforms, offering a space where users can effortlessly find like-minded individuals who understand their experiences and challenges. It allows them to celebrate their identity rather than concealing it.

Intention-Driven Connections

One notable feature of Famm Connect is its "Open to" tags. These tags can be added to a user's profile to specify their intentions for using the app, such as being open to coffee chats, mentoring opportunities, volunteering, and more. This ensures that when users reach out to others, their interactions are purposeful rather than random spamming.

With approximately 1.4 million LGBTQ-owned businesses operating in the U.S., Famm also plans to incorporate listings for businesses to promote their products and services. Perez highlights that it is challenging for business owners to advertise on larger platforms as their offerings may use certain terminology that could lead to flagging or banning. Currently, business listings are free, but the platform will soon introduce premium business profiles at a cost of $20 per month or $200 per year.

Building a Comprehensive Network

In addition to the existing features, Famm is in the process of developing a section dedicated to in-person networking events, job listings, and sponsored posts. This comprehensive approach aims to provide LGBTQ+ professionals with a one-stop destination for all their professional needs.

The app is freely available for download and operates on an invite-only basis, allowing for unlimited referrals. It represents a significant step forward in creating a supportive community for LGBTQ+ professionals and business owners.

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Texas vs. Clemson: Game Time, Date, and TV Info Revealed
2024-12-08
For the very first time, the Texas Longhorns are all set to go head-to-head with the Clemson Tigers in the opening round of the 2024 College Football Playoff. This electrifying matchup has sent ripples through the football world, and immediately after its revelation, crucial details such as television partners and kickoff times were made public.

Witness the Battle of the Titans in the 2024 College Football Playoff

Texas vs. Clemson: A Historic Encounter

For the first time ever, the Texas Longhorns will take on the Clemson Tigers at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, December 21 at 3 p.m. Central time. This is a momentous occasion for Texas football fans as they get to witness their team in such a high-stakes game. The game will be televised by TNT and streamed on MAX, ensuring that fans from all over can catch every thrilling moment. If the Longhorns emerge victorious, they will face the Arizona State Sun Devils on January 1 in the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl at noon Central in Atlanta, Ga. This subsequent game holds great significance for Texas as they aim to continue their winning streak.

Tennessee vs. Ohio State: A Central Time Clash

The Tennessee Volunteers are all set to embark on a journey to Columbus, Ohio to face the Ohio State Buckeyes on December 21 at 7 p.m. Central. This matchup is expected to be a fierce battle between two powerhouse teams. ESPN and ABC will be airing the game from Ohio Stadium, bringing the action to millions of viewers. The winner of this game will then face Oregon in the Rose Bowl on January 1 at 4 p.m. Central, adding another layer of excitement to the playoff schedule.

SMU vs. Penn State: A Pennsylvanian Showdown

SMU will make its way to Happy Valley, Penn. to take on the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 21 at 11 a.m. TNT and MAX will be streaming this contest, allowing fans to follow the action no matter where they are. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter between two talented teams. The winner of this matchup will head to Phoenix, Ariz. to face Boise State on December 31 at 6:30 p.m., continuing the playoff journey.

Indiana vs. Notre Dame: The Hoosier State Battle

The Indiana Hoosiers will travel from Bloomington to South Bend to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Central. This game holds a special place in the hearts of both fan bases and is expected to be a highly competitive affair. Whoever emerges victorious from this Hoosier State battle will then travel to New Orleans to face Georgia in the Allstate Sugar Bowl on New Years Day at 7:45 p.m.

Semifinal Showdowns: Miami and Dallas

The semifinal games will be played at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Fla. or the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas. The Orange Bowl is scheduled for Thursday, January 9 and will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Central, while the Cotton Bowl will kick at 6:30 p.m. Central on Friday, January 10. ESPN will be airing both of these highly anticipated contests, adding to the excitement.

College Football Playoff National Championship: Atlanta's Big Day

The College Football Playoff National Championship is scheduled for Monday, January 20 in Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT and ESPN will be televising the title game, bringing the excitement of the championship to a grand finale.
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